Britz takes next step towards Japan goal

NEWS: Willem Britz is one of two captains in the Sunwolves squad for the 2018 Super Rugby season.

Japan international scrumhalf Yutaka Nagare has been named as the other captain in the squad.

Britz began his Sunwolves journey is last year's Super Rugby campaign and put in a number of eye-catching performances for the Japanese outfit.

The 29-year-old's new leadership role is a big step in his career in Japan. Last year Britz expressed his desire to represent Japan at the World Cup in 2019.

The South African also revealed to rugby365 that Japan coach Jamie Joseph, who is now also the Sunwolves head coach, spoke to him about his future in Japan.

Before his move to Japan, Britz played more than 100 first class games for various South African teams - including the Free State Cheetahs (domestic competitions), Cheetahs (Super Rugby), Griffons, Golden Lions (domestic competitions) and Lions (Super Rugby).

In 2015, he joined NTT Shining Arcs in the Japanese Top League.

The Sunwolves begin their 2018 Super Rugby campaign against the Brumbies in Tokyo on February 24.